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Ooty, popularly known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ is nestled in the Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu. The lush green tea plantations, the vast meadows, the towering mountains, dense pine and eucalyptus trees, sparkling waterfalls and serene lakes make Ooty a prominent part of any bucket list. Ooty enjoys pleasant weather all through the year and is also the most sought after honeymoon destination in South India, owing to the various things to do in Ooty.

Top 32 Things To Do In Ooty

With so many things to do in this gorgeous hill station and soak in more serenity for your mind, body and soul, here’s a list of must-have experiences that you simply cannot afford to miss out on!

1. Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train

nilgiri railway ooty

The century-old Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and taking a ride. This 46 km toy train journeys through the picturesque valley, amazing tunnels, steep curves, beautiful bridges and the lush green Nilgiris Mountain to reach Ooty from Mettupalayam. Taking a ride of this mountain railway is one of the must to do activities in Ooty which one cannot miss.

Famous For: An adventurous ride amidst the nature’s finest beauty
Average cost: INR 100

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2. Botanical Gardens

Behold the stunning colours of the Botanical Gardens

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The Government Botanical Garden in Ooty is a massive garden spread across 55 hectares and the various flowers here are a delight to the eyes. It has over 650 species of flowers and trees.

Famous For: To witness variety of flowers and trees
Location: Vannarpettai
Timings: 8.30 AM to 6.30 PM

3. Dolphin’s Nose

Take a drive up to Dolphin's Nose ooty

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Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint is a picturesque tourist spot situated 1550 meters above sea level. It’s an ecstasy to drive to Dolphin’s nose viewpoint through hairpin bends, tea plantations, and Catherine Falls. Visiting the Dolphin’s Nose should definitely be on your list.

Famous For:
The point where one can see tea plantations
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

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4. Toda Huts

Go back in time at the Toda Huts ooty

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Todas are the local tribes of Ooty and live in bamboo huts with thatched roofs that are in a semi barrel shape and have no windows. They have small entrance and requires one to bend to enter the hut. If you are wondering what to do in Ooty, checking these Toda huts will definitely be a lifetime experience.

Famous For: Historical bamboo settlements

5. Doddabetta Peak

Trek up to Doddabetta Peak

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Doddabetta is the highest peak in the Nilgiris at an altitude of 8606 feet. The Doddabetta peak offers a beautiful panoramic view of the region and has a Telescope House to let travelers catch fascinating views of the surrounding Nilgiri area. Visiting the Doddabetta Peak is one of the best things to do in Ooty in March when the sky is clear and the weather is sunny.

Famous For: Trekking
Location: Ooty-Kotagiri Road
Timings: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 10 per person

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6. Summer Festival Of Ooty

Take part in the Summer Festival of Ooty

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If you are wondering what do in Ooty in the month of May, then taking part in the Summer Festival organized by the Tourist Department is the best things to do in Ooty in May. The annual summer festival in May aims to promote tourism in Ooty and offers a number of cultural programs like Boat Races and flower shows.

7. Pykara

Take a speedboat ride at the Pykara ooty

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Pykara is a village and is known for the Pykara Waterfall and the Pykara lake. One can enjoy the speedboat rides available at the lake, take a walk amid the pine trees, have a picnic with family, among the best things to do in Ooty in 2 days!

Famous For: Speedboat rides
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Average cost: INR 60/-

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8. Tea Museum

Sip exotic blends of tea at the Tea Museum ooty

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The museum enlightens you about the Origin of World Tea and evolution of tea in the Nilgiris. Surrounded by lush green tea plantations, the museum has a souvenir shop where you can shop for a wide variety of tea leaves, teacups, plates etc. This is among the best things to do in Ooty in August as the tea plantations look fresh and green then.

Famous For: Tea Plantations and museum
Location: Doddabetta Road
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: INR 250 per person

9. Pubs

Loosen up at the cosy pubs of Ooty

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Ooty has some of the country’s best Pubs and Bars like The Valley Bar, Club Mahindra, Canterbury Bar and Selbournes Bar. Visiting the Selbournes Bar is definitely one of the most amazing things to do in Ooty at night owing to its chic and elegant ambience.

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10. St. Stephen’s Church

Pay your respects at the St. Stephens Church ooty

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St. Stephens Church was built by the British almost 200 years ago and still looks as magnificent. Apart from its painting of the Last Supper, the churchyard is frequented by tourists for a perfect evening stroll. Visiting the St. Stephen’s Church during Christmas is among the best things to do in Ooty in December.

Location: ‎Club Road
Timings‎: ‎10:00 AM to 5.00 PM

11. Upper Bhavani Lake

Take an adventurous drive to Upper Bhavani Lake ooty

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Upper Bhavani Lake is one of the reserved areas in Ooty where you need to go by Forest department vehicles after the Avalanche check post. The lake has crystal clear blue water and undoubtedly makes up for the best things to do in Ooty in June.

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12. Wax World Museum

Meet India’s legends at the Wax World Museum ooty

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The Wax World Museum in Ooty is located at the 130 year old Colonial Mansion, close to the Ooty Lake. The wax museum houses a number of look-alike wax statues of personalities from Indian history. If you are wondering what to do in Ooty with kids, the wax museum will never let your expectations down.

Famous For: Wax Statues of people in Indian history
Location: Kothagiri Road
Timings: 9.00 AM to 8.00 PM
Entry fee: INR 20 per person

13. Camping

Go camping on the banks of the Avalanche Lake ooty

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Avalanche Lake is an enthralling abode with activities like camping, fishing and rafting. The clear water with the Nilgiris hills on all sides and the cloudy sky makes it a scenic point! Camping at the Avalanche Lake is one of the most thrilling things to do in Ooty at night!

Location: Close to Emerald Dam
Timings: 8.00 AM to 6.00 PM

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14. Homemade Chocolates

Taste homemade chocolates at the Main Bazaar

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Main Bazaar is the flea market Where people throng in to buy various types of tea and coffee paintings, handicrafts, and imitation jewelry. But their signature item is the homemade chocolates. There are a lot of eateries around the market and an evening stroll around the Main Bazaar is among the perfect things to do in Ooty in December.

15. Honey And Bee Museum

Learn to extract honey at the Honey and Bee Museum ooty

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While the lakes and viewpoints are common among hill stations, the Honey and Bee Museum is unique and among the best things to do in Ooty, India. The museum is a storehouse of knowledge and explains about the types of bees and the traditional ways of extracting honey.

Famous For: To know about the honey production
Location: Sargan Villa Club Road
Timings: 9.30 AM to 7.00 PM

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16. Catherine Waterfall

waterfall in Ooty

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One of the adventurous things to do in Ooty that you must visit while you’re in Ooty. The best things about this waterfall is the hike that leads you to a mesmerizing view from up above the falls. Even though it’s not possible to reach the foot of this waterfall, both locals and tourists enjoy the hike as it is perfect for an insta-worthy picture! So, make sure you get your camera along too.

Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM

17. Emerald Lake

lake in Ooty

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Nestled between the blue hills of Nilgiris, the gorgeous Emerald Lake is known to soothe your soul like no other. While in Ooty, this lake is surely a perfect spot for all the nature-lovers. What’s more is that you can pack a small picnic and experience this scenic place’s peaceful vibes with your loved ones. Also known to be an amazing weekend getaway, this place is the go-to spot for all locals.

Location: Silent Valley, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM

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18. Mariamman Temple

temple in Ooty

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Situated close to the main market of Ooty, the renowned Mariamman Temple is named after the Hindu Goddess of Rain. Amongst the most popular temples in town, this one surely tops the list. If you wish to see a carnival-like celebration in Ooty, you can visit this place in April when an annual festivities are held in this temple. Admire the stunning work of architecture or enjoy the festivities- the choice is all yours!
Famous For: Architectural Beauty
Location: Nilgiri Mountains, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM

19. Higginbothams Book Store

famous book store in Ooty

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One of the most fun things to do in Ooty is to visit this book store. Whether you’re a book-lover or not, this place has plenty of books, travel stuff and stationery to offer that’ll surely make your day. With a vast collection of books, at this book store which is also one of the oldest in town, you’ll never want to leave the store, especially on a weekend. So, are you planning to visit this place soon?

Location: Super Market Complex, Commercial Rd, Opp: Hotel Nahar, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 9 AM to 1 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM

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20. Pine Forest

forest in Ooty

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Lying between Ooty and Thalakunda, the famous Pine forests have been a favourite spot for tourists looking for a fun outing. With a mild sunbeam hitting the ground through the tall and dense Pine trees, the nature walk between these forests is considered to be a soothing experience by locals as well as travelers. Also called as Shooting point, this place has been featured in many movies too.

Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

21. Kotagiri Trek

kotagiri peak view

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Located near Ooty, Kotagiri is a delight for adventure and nature lovers. Once you take a trip to the hilltop, you will feel blessed to lay your eyes on such breathtaking views. The hill is located on a height of 5,890 ft and it is best if you start early in the morning to make the best of your day. Spend a night to enjoy camping in the woods. This is one of the best adventure sports in Ooty.

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22. Masinagudi

masinagudi

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Are you looking for adventure activities in Ooty? Camping in Masinagudi is one of the most exciting things to do in ooty in night where you can be closer to nature. There is a lot of scope for camping and adventure activities and Masinagudi. You may also get lucky to have a close encounter with a number of forest species. Enjoy the pleasure of jungle river bathing and camping in the wilderness. The place is known for offering the best adventure sports in Ooty.

23. Glenmorgan Trek

glenmorgan trek

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There is no dearth of places for trekking in and around Ooty. Glenmorgan Trek is another activity where your eyes can feast upon delightful views of nature.the trek is located 16 km away from Otty and begins from Patthar Village. Once you reach the top, you will get to enjoy the mesmerizing views of Bokkapuram, Masinagudi and Mudumalai Sanctuary. The trails of the trek takes you through dense forests and thickets of Eucalyptus and finally ending at Pykara Junction. This is one of the best places to go for trekking which is also quite preferable activities to do in Ooty.

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24. Birdwatching

crane on water

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Birdwatching is not an activity for everyone but if you do have the patience and love for nature. Even if you do not, you should consider it because it is kind of once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Thankfully, you have plenty of opportunities for birdwatching in Ooty. You will get to see so many birds during your tour. So, bring your DSLR along to capture all the exotic species of birds in your camera forever. The tranquility and the sound of birds chirping will give you mental peace of another level. If you’re still looking activities to do in Ooty, then this can be on your list.

25. Cycling

biking trail

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If you are looking for activities in Ooty, you can engage yourself in this while you will be on a trip to Ooty. All the cyclists in the house gather around and revel in all the cycling opportunities Ooty has to offer to you. Plan a cycling trip to Masanagudi from Ooty and make a stop by Bandipur, Kalhatty and DoddaBetta on your way. The whole journey goes through flat terrain and forest areas making it one of the best biking trails in the country. If such things get you high on adrenaline, then you should definitely sign up for this adventure. This is one of the best adventure activities in Ooty.

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26. Government Museum

government musuem

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This museum was built around the year 1989 to maintain and promote the culture of Ooty. Housing some of the best collections of culture, history, tribes, tribal objects and sculptures, there are a lot of remains which reflect the nature and ecology of Udhagamandalam. This museum has preserved the historical art, craft and sculpture which are worth witnessing. Alongside that, this museum is known for preserving the important things which were associated with the Todas which is one of the existing tribes of the region.

Famous For: Exploring the culture and history of Ooty
Location: near Arts College, Stone House Area, Stone House, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu 643002
Timings: 9:30am-5pm (Mon-Sun)

27. Ooty Boat House

Ooty Boat House

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The Ooty Boat House is also popularly called the Ooty lake which is situated at a distance of 1 km from the city bus stand. Inaugurated by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, the prime attraction of this place is boating which attracts the tourists. The interesting fact about this lake is that it is an artificial lake which was constructed by John Sullivan in 1824.

Famous For: Boating
Location: No. 2, North Lake Road, Udagamandalam, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu 643001
Timings: 9AM-6PM

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28. Flower Show in Ooty

Ooty Flower Show

Image Credit: Deccan Chronicle

The flower show is quite an event that is hosted by the Government Botanical Garden during the month of May. This is one of the favorite festivals among the locals and showcases many types of flowers which are brought from all around the world. The first flower show was organized in the year 1896. People can find around 150 cut flower varieties and also 50 types of potted plants. Alongside that, there are tropical fruits and vegetables which are also showcased.

29. Tea and Tourism Festival

Tea Festival

Image Credit: IndiaTours.com

This one of a kind festival is organised by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department and Ministry of Tourism in January. It is an annual festival that attracts a huge audience and offers them a chance to discover a variety of tea. The moment one enters, there is aromatic fragrance that surrounds the place and one can bring back tea samples along with them.

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30. Boating Ride in Ooty

Ooty Boat House

Image Credit: Amalshaji27 for Wikipedia

This is one of the exciting things to do in Ooty for the people who want to relax and enjoy the vibe. Happening at Lake Pykara and the Ooty Lake, this is one of the famous attractions to visit in the hill station. There are a huge number of boats which can be found here including pedal boats and motor boats. Alongside that one can also enjoy cruising and take a glimpse of the surreal view.

Timings: 10AM-5PM

31. Shopping

Rose Garden

Apart from sightseeing and exploring serene spots, you can also indulge in retail therapy. Ooty is home to numerous shops and markets from where you can grab some souvenirs to bring back home. Some of the best markets to add to your itinerary are Upper Bazaar Road, Commercial Road, Lower Bazaar Road, Charring Cross, and more. From Toda shawls to handmade jewellery to local spices and bamboo items, you will find a wide range of products that Ooty is famous for. So, if you are seeking some of the best things to do in Ooty with family, spare some time for shopping as well.

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32. Rose Garden

Rose Garden

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Featuring around 20,000 varieties of roses, Rose Garden is one of the most alluring places to visit in Ooty where travellers of all age groups can enjoy. The garden is classified into five curving terraces covering four hectares. The best time to visit the Garden is between March to June when the flowers are in full bloom. Travellers who are seeking the best things to do in Ooty in April, a visit to the Rose Garden is a must.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Tamil Nadu and unwind and rejuvenate amidst nature with your friends and family. With so many things to do in Ooty, we bet you’ll be spoilt for choice!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Ooty

Which is better, Ooty or Kodaikanal?

Both the places, Ooty and Kodaikanal are known for their exclusive experiences. These are popular honeymoon hill stations in Tami Nadu. However, if you prefer higher altitude and more sightseeing tours then you should visit Ooty. In the case of Kodaikanal, there are fewer attractions and it is lower in altitude than Ooty.

What are the top attractions to visit in Ooty?

There are numerous places in Ooty that you can add to your itinerary. Some of the best ones are Catherine Falls, Rose Garden, Botanical Garden, Government Museum, Kotagiri, Higginbothams Book Store, and more.

What are the best things to do in Ooty that are also safe in the current Covid-19 scenario?

Some of the fun things that you can do in Ooty post-COVID visit Ooty Rose Garden, ride in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Boat ride in Ooty Lake, Visit the botanical Garden.

Which are the most romantic things to do in Ooty for couples?

Visit Pykara Falls, Doddabetta Peak for spectacular views, Ooty lake is one of the most romantic things to do in Ooty for couples.

What are the best activities to enjoy in Ooty for families with kids?

Some of the best activities to enjoy in Ooty for families with kids are enjoying a toy train ride, go camping at Picnic Lake, have a picnic by Ooty lake, visit the botanical gardens, tour the tea plantation and trek to Doddabetta Peak.

Is 2 day enough for Ooty?

Ooty is considered to be an evocative delight and there are a lot of places that can be visited in just two days and these places include Doddabetta Peak, Pykara waterfalls, Botanical Garden.

What can we do in Ooty at night?

There are a few pubs and bars you can visit to experience nightlife in Ooty. You can interact with the locals, enjoy a few drinks or the live band or simply dance to the tune of the music.

Is Ooty good for a honeymoon?

Ooty is a wonderful place for honeymooners. It is one of the most romantic places in Tamil Nadu for a honeymoon. The beautiful hill station offers mesmerizing landscape that will leave you encaptivated if you opt to go on a Ooty honeymoon.

What are the key attractions at Ooty lake?

Some of the best things to do at Ooty lake are boating and the mini toy train ride. You can also simply admire the beautiful view and relax by the lakeside.

What are the best things to do on an Ooty trip?

Some of the best things to do in Ooty are: 1. Buy woollen clothes at the Tibetan market 2. Ride the Toy Train at Nilgiri Mountain 3. Trek through Pine forest 4. Boating at Ooty lake

How many days should I spend in Ooty?

In Ooty, a couple of days are enough to explore the quaint town. You can explore nearby places like Masinagudi, Coorg, Wayanad on the rest of the days. Don’t spend all your days exploring just one place.

Can we cover Ooty in one day?

Yes, it is possible for you to cover major attractions in Ooty if not all. You will have to be very selective with choosing places to put on your itinerary. However, a couple of days should suffice you if you have more time on your hand.

Is Ooty crowded in the winter season?

Yes, Ooty in winters is crowded since it is a peak season for tourists. In December, the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature hovers around 5 degrees Celsius. Also, you have so many activities to catch up on during this time of year.


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